Bacon and Parmesan Brussels Sprout Skewers Recipe for Grilling

How do you get your family to eat brussels sprouts this Christmas? By making these super delicious Bacon & Parmesan Brussels Sprout Skewers!

If your family turns their noses up at brussels sprouts, this recipe could change that. These Bacon & Parmesan Brussels Sprout Skewers make sprouts tasty, appealing and perfect for a festive plate.

Brussels sprouts are basically miniature cabbages, but their reputation often suffers from memories of overcooked, mushy examples. This recipe keeps the sprouts slightly firm with just enough bite while adding smoky bacon and salty parmesan for irresistible flavour.

Why this brussels sprout recipe works so well

Many of us remember limp, overcooked sprouts. Here the sprouts are boiled briefly so they soften but still retain texture. Wrapping them with streaky bacon introduces smoky richness while the parmesan adds a salty finish that complements the vegetable. Threading them on skewers keeps the presentation fun and makes them easy to serve as a side or canapé.

What ingredients you need

• Brussels sprouts
• A little oil
• Streaky bacon
• Grated parmesan

Kitchen equipment

• Large saucepan to cook the sprouts
• Frying pan or grill pan for the bacon
• Small wooden cocktail sticks or bamboo skewers for assembling

Preparing the sprout skewers

This is an easy recipe with minimal steps.

Trim the sprouts by removing loose outer leaves and make a small cross in the stem end so they cook evenly. Boil them briefly until they just start to soften (see instructions below), then drain and set aside to cool while you fry the bacon.

Fry the streaky bacon in a little oil for a couple of minutes on each side so it starts to crisp but is still flexible. Drain on kitchen paper.

Assemble by threading a sprout onto a skewer, adding the edge of a bacon slice, then another sprout and bacon, finishing with a third sprout. Sprinkle with grated parmesan and serve immediately. The combination of smoky bacon and salty parmesan complements the sprouts and makes them a crowd-pleasing side.

Ingredients (quantities)

• 400g brussels sprouts, washed and prepared
• 1 tsp oil
• 13 slices streaky bacon
• 1 tbsp grated parmesan

Instructions

1. Place the sprouts in a large saucepan, cover with boiling water and simmer for 6–7 minutes until they just start to soften.
2. Drain the sprouts and set them on a plate to cool.
3. Meanwhile, fry the streaky bacon in a little oil for a couple of minutes on each side. Aim for the bacon to start crisping but remain pliable so it can be threaded.
4. Remove the bacon from the pan and drain on kitchen paper.
5. Thread a sprout onto a wooden cocktail skewer, add the edge of a bacon slice, then another sprout and thread the bacon again. Repeat to include a third sprout.
6. When all skewers are assembled, sprinkle with grated parmesan.
7. Serve immediately while still warm.

Serving suggestions and variations

These skewers are a great festive side dish that pairs well with roasted meats or can be served as a party nibble. For a twist, try a light drizzle of honey or maple syrup before adding parmesan for a sweet‑savory contrast. For vegetarian guests, omit bacon and roast the sprouts with a little olive oil and smoked paprika, then finish with parmesan or a nut-based crumb if avoiding dairy.

Other Christmas side dishes

If you like fresh, vibrant sides, consider pairing these skewers with recipes such as slow cooker red cabbage or a whole roasted cauliflower with hazelnut pesto — both make attractive additions to a festive table and suit different dietary needs.

If you try this recipe, please share a photo — it’s always lovely to see how people serve their dishes at Christmas.

Bacon & Parmesan Brussels Sprout Skewers

• Author: Ciara Attwell @ My Fussy Eater
• Prep Time: 3 mins
• Cook Time: 13 mins
• Total Time: 16 minutes
• Yield: 6–13
• Category: Side Dish
• Cuisine: European